Penguins Coach Mike Sullivan Benches Several Veteran Players Ahead of More Likely Trades

The rumor mill has been in full operation the past few weeks in Pittsburgh. Ever since the team traded Lars Eller to the Washington Capitals, it feels like there are more moves to come.

One name that has been in discussion is legendary defenseman Kris Letang. The 37-year-old did not play last night reportedly due to an illness, but could it actually be because of trade considerations?

After all, it sounds like everyone in Pittsburgh is on the table at this point, including Letang and even Evgeni Malkin. The one exception to that rule of course, is Sidney Crosby.

With that being said, it does appear as though the team is looking to buy at one position rather than sell. That would be in goal, as they have had terrible performances by their netminders this year. According to the latest rumors, Kyle Dubas may be targeting Sharks netminder Mackenzie Blackwood.

If the team does trade for the Sharks goalie, it could come soon given that Dubas just had a chance to watch him personally. While the Penguins did win, and Crosby beat Blackwood for goal 599, he was very good in the game overall, stopping 25 of 26 shots faced after Vitek Vanecek left with an injury.

Was Dubas impressed enough to pull the trigger? What assets do the Penguins have that San Jose might want in return? Could this be a win-win where the Penguins acquire a new goalie while also moving out an older veteran? These questions may very well be answered very shortly, so keep an eye on the Penguins in the trade market in the coming days.